Whether you have a long weekend or a full five days in Las Vegas, this travel planner provides clear day-by-day itineraries.
Each plan balances daytime sightseeing with nighttime entertainment, covering the must-see Strip attractions, a venture into downtown’s cultural sights, and even nature excursions outside the city.
Follow the suggested schedule for 3, 4, or 5 days to experience the best of Las Vegas in a manageable way.
Las Vegas has always been a city of spectacle, but it’s also a place of constant change.
In this collection, we go beyond the clichés to explore Las Vegas in full. You’ll find guides for first-time visitors, deep dives into its history and economy, cultural perspectives on its identity, and personal stories that bring the city’s energy to life.
Three-Day Las Vegas Itinerary
Day 1: Exploring the Las Vegas Strip
Begin your trip with a full day on the famous Las Vegas Strip. Spend the day walking between the mega-resorts and casinos along this 4.2-mile (6.8 km) stretch.
Each hotel offers a new world – you can find an Egyptian pyramid at Luxor, the New York City skyline at New York-New York, and even the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas.
As you explore, catch the Fountains of Bellagio, a free outdoor water show synchronized to music that runs regularly throughout the day and evening. Other worthwhile stops include the Bellagio Conservatory for its stunning seasonal flower displays (open 24/7 and free) and a gondola ride through the canals of The Venetian.
In late afternoon, consider riding the High Roller observation wheel at The LINQ, which at 550 feet tall is the world’s tallest Ferris wheel and offers spectacular panoramic views of the city.
Evening: Plan for dinner and a show on your first night – Las Vegas is nicknamed the “Entertainment Capital of the World” and each resort features multiple dining and entertainment options.
For example, you might dine at a celebrity chef steakhouse and then see a Cirque du Soleil production, or enjoy sushi followed by a magic show. Major productions run year-round, so pick one that suits your taste (acrobatic Cirque shows, magic acts, concerts, etc.).
After the show, take an evening stroll to admire the Strip’s neon lights and bustling atmosphere. It’s wise not to overdo it on Day 1, as you have a lot ahead – enjoy the nightlife but get some rest for the next day.
Day 2: More Strip Highlights and Nighttime Fun
Devote Day 2 to the remaining highlights of the Strip and a taste of Las Vegas nightlife.
Daytime: In the morning, you could visit the southern end of the Strip if you started mid-Strip on Day 1. Stop by the iconic “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign early for a quick photo op before the crowds (it’s located just south of Mandalay Bay).
Consider a late breakfast or brunch at one of the city’s famous buffets – Las Vegas buffets are legendary, with some offering hundreds of dishes from prime rib to king crab legs.
Afterward, explore any major resorts you missed yesterday. For instance, wander through Caesars Palace’s Forum Shops (with its Roman streetscape and animatronic shows) or check out the pyramid and sphinx at Luxor.
Midday is a good time to escape the heat by seeing an indoor attraction: options include the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay or the Titanic Artifact Exhibition at Luxor. In the late afternoon, you might take a break – lounge by your hotel pool or recharge in your room – to save energy for the night.
Evening: Sample Las Vegas’s renowned nightlife on your second night. You could start with an early dinner at a rooftop restaurant or casual eatery, then head to a nightlife venue of your choice. Las Vegas offers everything from flashy nightclubs to relaxed lounges and comedy bars.
For a high-energy evening, visit one of the mega nightclubs (like Omnia at Caesars or XS at Wynn) where top DJs play and the dance floors are packed.
If clubs aren’t your style, there are plenty of alternative nighttime activities – live music at a piano bar, a glamorous cocktail lounge with a view, or even a late-night Cirque du Soleil show if you didn’t see one on Day 1.
The city truly has nightlife for every taste, from dance clubs to dive bars and comedy clubs. Just remember to pace yourself and stay hydrated while enjoying the party scene.
Day 3: Leisure and Last Highlights
On your final day of a three-day trip, take the morning at a slower pace to recuperate. Sleep in a bit and then enjoy a leisurely brunch. This could be the perfect time to try a top-rated buffet or a popular brunch spot on the Strip, fueling up for the day ahead.
Daytime: With two busy days behind you, use Day 3 to catch anything you might have missed or to revisit your favorite spots. Day 3 can be flexible based on your interests. If you’re interested in shopping, browse the upscale shops at the Venetian’s Grand Canal Shoppes or the Fashion Show Mall.
If you haven’t yet ridden the High Roller observation wheel or visited the Stratosphere Tower (The STRAT) for its observation deck and thrill rides, this afternoon is a good opportunity.
Alternatively, for something offbeat, you could stop by the Pinball Hall of Fame (an eclectic museum of vintage pinball machines) or take a short Uber ride to Area15, an entertainment complex featuring immersive art experiences like the famous Omega Mart.
Evening: For your last night in Vegas, consider a memorable closing activity. You might book a reservation at a fine dining restaurant by a celebrity chef to cap off your trip with a special meal – Las Vegas has numerous celebrity chef restaurants and gourmet dining experiences.
After dinner, you could try your luck on the casino floor, or simply take one more walk down the Strip to soak in the electric atmosphere. If you haven’t seen a second show and have the energy, this could be a chance to catch a different type of performance (perhaps a comedy act or a music headliner).
Otherwise, enjoy a low-key final night – for example, find a lounge with a view (like a rooftop bar overlooking the Strip) to relax and reflect on your trip. By now you’ve covered the Strip’s major highlights, so feel free to take it easy. Tomorrow, you’ll depart with plenty of classic Las Vegas memories from an action-packed three days.
Four-Day Las Vegas Itinerary
With an extra day, you can expand on the three-day plan by exploring beyond the Strip’s main drag.
A four-day itinerary includes everything from the 3-day plan, plus time for downtown Las Vegas and additional attractions.
Here’s a suggested schedule for four days in Vegas:
Day 1: Casino Hopping on the Strip & Big Show
Use the same plan as Day 1 in the three-day itinerary.
Spend the first day strolling the central Strip, visiting the iconic casinos and free attractions like the Bellagio Fountains and other landmarks.
In the evening, enjoy dinner and a major show to kick off your trip. With four days ahead, you don’t have to rush – take time to enjoy the atmosphere at each resort you enter.
Day 2: More Strip Sights
Continue exploring the Strip’s attractions that you couldn’t fit in on Day 1. In a four-day trip, you can afford to dive deeper.
For example, you might spend part of the day at MGM Grand to see its huge casino and entertainment venues, or visit The Mirage (for its aquarium and Beatles LOVE show, if interested).
Leave some free time in the afternoon for a unique experience: you could relax at a pool complex (many resorts have elaborate pools) or book a spa treatment for midday rejuvenation.
Late afternoon, consider an attraction like the High Roller if you haven’t done it yet, or take a ride on the Big Apple Coaster at New York-New York for a thrill.
Evening: If you saw a show on Day 1, use tonight to try a different type of entertainment or explore the Strip at night freely. You might do a casual food crawl for dinner – sample appetizers at one resort, then walk to another for a main course or dessert, enjoying the varied dining options.
After dark, the Strip is one big spectacle. With another night tomorrow for downtown, you can spend this evening experiencing nightlife on the Strip again or simply people-watching along Las Vegas Boulevard.
For a classic nightlife option, consider seeing the Bellagio Fountain show after sunset (it runs every 15 minutes at night) and then heading to a well-known nightclub or a late-night burlesque or magic show. The key is to enjoy Vegas’s nighttime energy without overextending yourself, as two more busy days are ahead.
Day 3: Downtown Las Vegas
Day 3 is dedicated to Downtown Las Vegas, the historic heart of the city. In the morning, head to the downtown area (a short taxi or rideshare from the Strip). Start with one of the city’s top cultural attractions, the Mob Museum.
This interactive museum (housed in a former courthouse) has three floors of exhibits detailing the history of organized crime and law enforcement in America – a fascinating, educational break from the glitz of the Strip.
After spending a couple of hours there, you can have lunch at a local downtown eatery (downtown offers some classic Vegas cheap eats and newer hip restaurants alike). In the afternoon, visit the Neon Museum, also known as the Neon Boneyard.
This outdoor museum showcases over 200 vintage neon signs from old casinos and landmarks. It’s recommended to pre-book a tour; an evening tour is especially popular because many signs are illuminated or lit with dramatic lighting at night.
If you prefer to see it in daylight, an afternoon visit works too – you’ll wander among the huge retro neon installations and get a sense of Vegas history.
Evening: Spend the night on Fremont Street, downtown’s main pedestrian corridor. The Fremont Street Experience is a five-block canopy covered in LEDs, hosting the world’s largest video light show.
After dusk, the overhead Viva Vision canopy comes alive with 12 million LED lights, creating an incredible music and light show each hour. Enjoy the free concerts or street performances that often take place on Fremont Street’s stages (check the schedule for any live bands).
You can also seek out some of Vegas’s classic neon signs here – the famous cowboy neon sign “Vegas Vic” still presides over one block. For the adventurous, try the SlotZilla Zipline, which lets you fly under the canopy above the crowds.
Downtown Las Vegas also offers a different style of gambling and entertainment with its vintage casinos like Binion’s and Golden Nugget – you might step inside to see their old-school charm.
Dinner tonight can be casual: perhaps grab a famed cheap shrimp cocktail or prime rib special at a downtown casino restaurant, or opt for one of the trendy new pubs in the Fremont East district. The atmosphere here is more laid-back and nostalgic than the Strip, but still lively.
After enjoying the light shows and entertainment, you can either stay downtown late into the night or head back to the Strip, depending on your energy. (Keep in mind rides back to your hotel are easy to find even late at night.)
Day 4: Off-Strip Highlights
On your last day, you have some flexibility to cover any remaining items on your Vegas wish-list.
Daytime: This can be a good day to explore an off-strip neighborhood or simply relax after three packed days. One option is to visit the Arts District (18b) in late morning – this area, just a few minutes from downtown, is known for its galleries, mural art, and vintage shops.
It offers a nice stroll if you enjoy local art and boutiques. Alternatively, if you’re in need of rest, spend the morning relaxing at your hotel pool or spa. By early afternoon, make your way back to the Strip for one last round of sightseeing or activities.
You could check out the Mirage Volcano (if operational) or ride up to the Stratosphere Observation Deck for a panoramic daytime view of Las Vegas. Another idea is touring the Springs Preserve, an attraction showcasing Las Vegas history and desert botanical gardens, which offers a quieter, educational experience away from the crowds.
Evening: Conclude your four-day trip with a memorable night. This is the night to do anything you haven’t done yet – perhaps you saved a big nightclub outing for tonight, or you want to dine at an upscale restaurant you’ve been eyeing.
As a send-off, consider reserving dinner at a restaurant with a view (for example, Top of the World at The STRAT, or the Eiffel Tower Restaurant at Paris) to enjoy the city’s lights from above. After dinner, dive into the Las Vegas nightlife one last time.
If you’re up for dancing, hit a top nightclub, or if you prefer a more relaxed vibe, try a famous cocktail bar (like the Chandelier Bar at The Cosmopolitan) or a speakeasy-style lounge. Las Vegas’s nightlife scene runs late and offers something for everyone.
Since this is your final evening, take a moment to walk outside and gaze at the glittering Strip – a fitting farewell to the city. Four days in Vegas allows you to see the modern Strip, the historic downtown, and enjoy world-class entertainment, all at a slightly more relaxed pace than a shorter trip.
Five-Day Las Vegas Itinerary
With five days in Las Vegas, you can enjoy everything from the 4-day plan and still have time for exciting day trips beyond the city.
This itinerary adds two popular excursions: Hoover Dam and Red Rock Canyon.
The extra days let you experience Nevada’s desert landscapes and engineering marvels, while still leaving free time to relax. Here’s how to structure a five-day Vegas trip:
Day 1: The Strip Core Attractions
Follow the outline from Day 1 of the three-day itinerary, focusing on the central Strip hotels and a big show in the evening.
With a longer trip ahead, you can take your time exploring. Perhaps limit yourself to a handful of must-see resorts (instead of trying to see them all) and enjoy a nice dinner and top-tier show at night. This eases you into Vegas without exhaustion.
Day 2: Extended Strip Exploration
Continue with more of the Strip’s attractions, as in the Day 2 of the four-day plan. Because you have five days, you might use Day 2 to venture to the far ends of the Strip that you haven’t seen.
For example, spend the morning around the south Strip (Excalibur, Luxor, Mandalay Bay) and the afternoon around the north Strip (Wynn/Encore, Venetian).
Take breaks as needed – for instance, a mid-afternoon rest at your hotel or a refreshing stop at a café in one of the casinos. By now you could have visited iconic free shows like the Bellagio fountains and Mirage volcano, and maybe taken in a unique attraction such as the High Roller or a roller coaster.
Evening: If you’re not too tired, this is a good night to experience another show or nightlife activity on the Strip. You might choose a different style of show (if you saw a Cirque acrobatic show, maybe now a music concert or a comedy act).
Alternatively, have a fun night of casino-hopping: dress up and visit a few famous casinos you haven’t been inside yet – grab a drink at each and soak in the distinct themes and people-watching. Knowing you have three more days (including some early starts for day trips), you could turn in a bit early tonight to prepare for the adventures outside the city.
Day 3: Downtown Delights
Use Day 3 to do the downtown itinerary as described in the four-day plan’s Day 3. In the morning, go to the Mob Museum to dive into Las Vegas’s mob history , then perhaps have lunch at a classic diner or pizzeria downtown.
In the afternoon, tour the Neon Museum’s collection of vintage signs (daytime or evening tour, depending on your booking). You’ll get a dose of old Vegas nostalgia and culture.
Evening: Enjoy the Fremont Street Experience at night, with its dazzling LED canopy show and lively street scene. Since you aren’t rushed, you could spend a longer time downtown – maybe do some casino gaming at Golden Nugget or watch free live music under the canopy.
If you have already seen Fremont’s light show, you might also wander a bit to the Fremont East district (just beyond the canopy) for a trendier bar or club frequented by locals. By the end of Day 3, you’ve covered both the Strip and downtown, leaving the next two days for excursions and any remaining Vegas experiences.
Day 4: Day Trip to Hoover Dam & Relaxation
Get an early start and pick up a rental car for a day trip to Hoover Dam (many tour companies also offer guided bus trips if you prefer not to drive).
The Hoover Dam is located about 30 miles southeast of Las Vegas, roughly a 45-minute drive. Aim to arrive in the morning before it gets too hot or crowded. Once there, you can walk across the dam’s 726-foot-high span – simply walking the top of this engineering marvel is free and offers stunning views of the Colorado River and Lake Mead far below.
For a deeper experience, consider taking the guided Powerplant Tour or Dam Tour offered at the site (these are paid tours that go into the interior corridors and power generators).
Tickets are first-come, first-served, so earlier in the day is better. Also, don’t miss the opportunity to walk out on the adjacent Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge, which provides a fantastic vantage point looking back at the dam. Spend a few hours at Hoover Dam enjoying the views and exhibits at the visitor center.
By early afternoon, head back to Las Vegas. You can stop in the small town of Boulder City for lunch on the way – it has a quaint historic downtown with some cafes and diners (notable since gambling is not allowed there, a contrast to Vegas). Back in Las Vegas by mid to late afternoon, use the rest of Day 4 to relax and recharge.
This could mean lounging at your hotel’s pool, taking a nap, or enjoying a spa treatment – you’ve earned some downtime after walking and touring all morning.
Evening: For your fourth night, keep things flexible. If you’re refreshed, you might head back out for an activity on the Strip that you skipped earlier (maybe this is a good night to ride the High Roller at sunset if you haven’t yet, or visit the top of the Eiffel Tower replica for night views).
If you prefer something low-key, catch an early evening comedy show or have a casual dinner at a local restaurant off the tourist path. Given that another adventure awaits tomorrow, feel free to turn in relatively early. The key tonight is balancing rest with a bit more Vegas fun.
Day 5: Red Rock Canyon & Farewell Vegas
On your final full day, venture out into Nevada’s natural beauty at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, which lies just west of the city. After breakfast, drive about 30 minutes to reach Red Rock Canyon’s visitor center.
Once there, you’ll take the 13-mile Scenic Drive loop that winds through stunning desert landscapes of red and tan sandstone formations. There are numerous overlooks and trailheads along the one-way loop.
You can simply pull over at the viewpoints for photos – the scenery is striking even right from the road, so you don’t need intense hiking to appreciate it. If you do want to stretch your legs, consider a short hike like the Calico Tanks Trail or the Easy Pine Creek Canyon trail (choose trails appropriate for your fitness and the weather).
Be sure to carry water and sun protection, as there is little shade and the desert sun is strong. Try to finish exploring Red Rock by early afternoon before the day’s heat peaks. In summer, it’s best to go in the morning; in cooler months, midday is fine but still bring a hat and sunscreen – the desert heat can be punishing, so always wear sun protection.
After looping back to the visitor center, head back to Las Vegas. You’ll likely arrive back by mid or late afternoon.
Afternoon: This is a good time to do any last-minute activities or shopping. Perhaps return your rental car and then stroll along the Strip for souvenirs. If you haven’t gotten a photo with the Welcome to Las Vegas sign or visited a specific attraction yet, now is the time.
You might also take this late afternoon to unwind at your hotel for a bit, packing up and resting before one more night out.
Evening: Your final night in Las Vegas can be as lively or relaxed as you want. Some travelers choose to make the last night a grand finale – maybe reserving a table at one of the city’s top restaurants for a celebratory dinner followed by a final show or nightclub visit.
Others may feel they’ve seen and done plenty and opt for a quieter evening. You could simply take an evening walk to enjoy the Strip one more time, perhaps stopping to watch the Bellagio fountains once more as a fitting goodbye.
If you haven’t yet tried your luck at gambling, you might spend an hour at the slot machines or a low-stakes table for the experience. Wrap-Up: Five days in Las Vegas have allowed you to see the gleaming Strip, the historic downtown, and the beautiful desert surroundings.
It’s a rewarding mix of neon and nature. By pacing yourself and including some off-the-strip excursions, you’ve experienced the full range of what the Las Vegas area has to offer.
Tips for Pacing and Energy Management
Las Vegas offers an incredible array of activities, but it can also be overwhelming. Here are some tips to help manage your energy and make the most of your trip without burnout:
- Wear Comfortable Shoes & Stay Hydrated: You will be doing a lot of walking – the Strip alone is over 4 miles long and you often end up wandering deep into large casino complexes. Wear good walking shoes and carry water. The desert climate is very dry; even if you mostly stay indoors, hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!. In hotter months, dehydration is a real risk, so drink water throughout the day and use sunscreen when outdoors.
- Plan for Downtime: Don’t schedule every minute. It’s okay (even recommended) to have a block of a few hours with nothing major planned each day to relax. Many visitors, and even travel experts, suggest leaving some unplanned time to recharge or explore spontaneously. You might spend an afternoon by the pool or take a power nap before dinner. This will give you stamina for Las Vegas’s late-night activities.
- Alternate Big Nights with Calmer Evenings: If you hit the clubs or a high-energy show one night, consider making the next night a bit calmer. For example, after a night of dancing or heavy drinking, plan the next morning as leisure time. This way you can enjoy the nightlife without ruining the next day. Try not to party hard every single night, especially if you have daytime tours planned. It’s worth taking it relatively easy on your first night so you start the trip rested. Likewise, avoid scheduling an early-morning Grand Canyon or Hoover Dam tour the day after a big party night – give yourself some buffer.
- Use Transportation to Save Energy: Don’t underestimate distances on the Strip. Casinos that look close can be a 20-minute walk apart. In the heat or when tired, use the Las Vegas Monorail, rideshare services, or taxis to hop around. This can spare your feet for when you really want to explore on foot. Also, taking a rideshare downtown (rather than driving yourself after a long day) can help you relax and avoid navigation stress.
- Mind the Desert Climate: If you’re doing outdoor excursions (Red Rock Canyon, Hoover Dam, etc.), go early in the morning if possible to avoid the worst heat . Always wear a hat, sunscreen, and light clothing for sun protection during the day trips. Even in the city, if you’re walking outside in the afternoon, seek shade periodically – duck into a casino or shop to cool off. Conversely, remember that nights, especially in winter, can be cooler than you expect in the desert, so have a light jacket for late evenings.
- Listen to Your Body: It’s easy to get caught up in the 24/7 action of Las Vegas – casinos have no clocks and the excitement can keep you awake longer than usual. Try to get adequate sleep and know that it’s impossible to see everything in one trip. Prioritize what you want to do most, and be willing to skip or postpone lesser interests if you’re feeling exhausted. It’s better to fully enjoy the activities you do partake in, rather than stretching yourself too thin.
By following these pacing strategies, you’ll enjoy your three, four, or five days in Las Vegas to the fullest without hitting the wall.
Las Vegas is a city that rewards both excitement and smart planning. With the above itineraries and tips, you can have an unforgettable trip while still feeling human at the end of each day.